Atlanta Falcons Dismiss Raheem Morris and Terry Fontenot
In a significant organizational shakeup, the Atlanta Falcons have dismissed both Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot. This decision follows a meeting held in Atlanta with Falcons Owner and Chairman, Arthur M. Blank.
Details of the Dismissal
The dismissals came shortly after the conclusion of the Falcons’ 2025 season, which ended with a home loss to the New Orleans Saints. Morris had been appointed as the head coach prior to the 2023 season. He initially stepped in as the interim head coach for the final 11 games of the 2020 season.
Morris’s Performance
- 2024 Record: 8-9
- 2025 Record: 8-9
- Overall Record: 16-18
- Playoff Appearances: None
During his time as interim head coach in 2020, the Falcons recorded a 4-7 finish. This lack of playoff appearances has raised concerns about the team’s direction under his leadership.
Fontenot’s Tenure
- Joined Falcons: 2021
- Tenure Duration: Five seasons
- Overall Record: 37-48
- Playoff Appearances: None
Fontenot’s five-season track record with the Falcons also reflects a struggle to achieve playoff success.
Arthur M. Blank’s Statement
Arthur M. Blank expressed both gratitude and regret regarding the departures. “I have great personal affinity for both Raheem and Terry and appreciate their hard work and dedication to the Falcons,” he stated. “However, we need new leadership in these roles moving forward.”
He acknowledged the wisdom in moving on, despite the difficulty of the decision, given the organization’s failures to meet competitiveness expectations.
Next Steps for the Falcons
With the coaching positions now vacant, the Falcons will begin their search for a new head coach and general manager. ZRG Partners will assist in the head coach search, while Sportsology Group will aid in recruiting a new general manager. Both searches will be conducted simultaneously, although no specific timeline for their completion has been established.
